Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Soft, fragrant, and loaded with flavor, this Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is everything you love about bakery-style loaves—right from your own oven. Infused with a blend of savory herbs and crowned with golden, melty cheese, it’s perfect as a side for soups and pastas, or for crafting the ultimate sandwich. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Herb-Infused Flavor – Every bite is packed with Italian seasoning goodness.
Golden Cheese Crust – Cheddar and parmesan create a rich, crispy topping.
Versatile Use – Serve with meals, use for sandwiches, or toast it up.
Simple & Rewarding – A satisfying recipe for beginner and seasoned bakers alike.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Great for prepping in advance and freezing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

• 3¼ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Herb & Cheese Blend:

• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1½ tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp dried parsley
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or dough hook
• Stand mixer (optional)
• Baking sheet or loaf pan
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy—this means your yeast is active and ready.

Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
Add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
Mix until dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
(You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook.)
Form into a ball, place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare Herb & Cheese Blend
In a bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, basil, parsley, and red pepper flakes.
Mix cheeses in a separate bowl and reserve about ⅓ cup for topping.

Step 4: Shape the Dough
Punch down the dough and transfer to a lightly floured surface.
Roll or shape into a rectangle if making a free-form loaf, or form into a log to fit a loaf pan.
Flatten slightly and sprinkle the herb blend and ⅔ of the cheese mixture over the top.
Gently roll or fold the dough in thirds like a letter, then tuck the ends underneath.
Place onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a greased loaf pan.
Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.

Step 5: Add Topping & Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush the top of the dough with olive oil or melted butter.
Sprinkle the reserved cheese on top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Let cool slightly before slicing.

Tips for Success
Use Warm Water – Not hot! Too hot can kill your yeast.
Don’t Overdo the Flour – A slightly tacky dough creates a softer bread.
Let It Rise – Be patient; a good rise creates that bakery-soft texture.
Use Fresh Cheese – Shredded off the block melts and browns better than pre-shredded.
Customize It – Try provolone, smoked gouda, or sun-dried tomatoes in the mix.

Serving Suggestions
With Pasta – A perfect match for spaghetti, lasagna, or Alfredo.
For Sandwiches – Use slices for grilled cheese, paninis, or subs.
As Toast – Buttered and toasted with soup or eggs.
Appetizer-Style – Serve warm with marinara or garlic butter dip.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Room Temp: Wrap in foil or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate: Store for up to 5 days, but reheat before eating for best texture.

Freezing:
Wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp and warm in the oven.

Reheating:
Oven: Warm at 300°F (150°C) for 10–12 minutes.
Toaster: Toast slices individually for crispy edges.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use instant yeast?
   Yes! Just skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the flour.
2. Can I make this gluten-free?
   Use a gluten-free bread flour blend with added xanthan gum and adjust water as needed.
3. Can I double the recipe?
   Absolutely—perfect for freezing one loaf and enjoying the other fresh.
4. What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
   Use a blend of oregano, thyme, rosemary, and basil in equal parts.
5. Can I use a bread machine?
   Yes. Use the dough cycle to mix and rise, then shape and bake as directed.

Final Thoughts
This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is a flavorful, cheesy classic that belongs in every bread lover’s recipe box. Whether you enjoy it as a side, a sandwich base, or a savory snack, it brings fresh-baked comfort and bold Italian flair to your table.

Bake a loaf today and let the aroma fill your kitchen—don’t forget to share your masterpiece online!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Rising Time: 90 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutritional Information (Per Slice – yields 12 slices):
Calories: 210 | Protein: 7g | Carbohydrates: 25g | Fat: 9g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 260mg

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